Scouting Report

Following an eye-opening freshman season that culminated in an outstanding performance against Kentucky's Jamal Murray in the second round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament, Anunoby wasn't able to significantly add to his resume during a somewhat disappointing sophomore campaign. Anunoby displayed his defensive prowess on a national stage when he helped limited Murray, an eventual top-10 pick, to 16 points on 7-of-18 shooting - including 1 of 9 from 3-point range - in Indiana's 73-67 victory. As a result, big things were expected from the forward heading into his second season with the Hoosiers. He upped his numbers slightly, averaging 17.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.1 steals and 2.1 blocks per-40 minutes, but shot just 31.1 percent from 3-point range after hitting on a 44.8 clip from deep as a freshman. Anunoby then sustained an ACL tear in January, forcing him to undergo season-ending surgery and leaving him unable to participate in pre-draft showcase events. He did measure out well at the draft combine in May, recording one of the top hand lengths and a 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan that was second only to Maryland's Justin Jackson (7'3.25") among those listed as small forwards. Because of this, NBA scouts believe he'll be able to switch on power forwards and centers in a pinch defensively while still possessing the speed and athleticism to defend guards and wings. Anunoby has a chance to be a star on the defensive end, but he certainly has room to grow offensively as he isn't much of a ball-handler and doesn't appear capable of creating his own shot. His scoring opportunities have come mainly from spot-up jump shots and straight-line drives to the hoop. Some believe his large hands can work against him as he hit just 52.2 percent from the free-throw line at Indiana. Though there are questions about how strong he'll come back from his ACL injury, Anunoby's combination of size, length, mobility and defensive capabilities make him likely too good to pass up in the back end of the lottery.